FOM FAQ

Who are the Friends of Montessori?  
Friends of Montessori (FOM) is a 501(c)(3) organization made up of volunteer parents, teachers, and community members dedicated to expanding the opportunity for and maintaining the integrity and excellence of Montessori programs in the Houston public schools.  It includes each parent/guardian of a child in a Montessori class at Garden Oaks and Woodrow Wilson schools.

What is the difference between Friends of Montessori and PTO? 
PTO and FOM both work to support the learning environment, and both groups raise supportive funds, but these funds are targeted to different things. The PTO raises funds for general school needs, while FOM raises funds for specific Montessori classroom materials. FOM also interacts with Houston ISD administration and educates parents to increase the understanding of the Montessori philosophy and methods.

When are Friends of Montessori meetings and events?  
FOM committees schedule meetings independently to accomplish specific goals like planning the annual gala/auction event. Announcements regarding parent education and events will be sent throughout the year. To find out more, join a committee, and check announcements at this web site.

Why does Friends of Montessori need my help?  
FOM is a 100% volunteer organization dedicated to making its schools the best educational alternatives in HISD. Your help is needed and appreciated in fundraising, materials making, communications (our newsletters and web site), planning and executing educational events, and raising district awareness of parental support.